* Outlook: The Redskins, 3-13 last season, are thrilled with their season so far; the Giants, who some figured could win 11, are appalled.

The Giants defense faces a stern test. In his second season, Washington coach Norv Turner is implementing the system he perfected as the Cowboys' offensive coordinator. Gus Frerotte has 12 touchdown passes and six interceptions, an outstanding ratio for a young quarterback. The three-step drops and quick slant-in passes Turner favors are suited to Frerotte's skills. The loss of Westbrook, the fourth pick in the draft, will hurt; he had formed a lethal tandem with Henry Ellard, 34, who is averaging 17.9 yards a catch. But fullback Marc Logan (19 catches, 315 yards) and all-purpose runner Brian Mitchell (158 yards, 19 carries; 19 catches, 162) give Frerotte a full complement of receivers. Terry Allen (666 yards, 165 carries) gives Washington a steady ground game. Turner has found the defense more difficult to build. The Redskins are ranked 25th overall, 28th against the run. Not since a 27-7 victory over Arizona on opening day have the Redskins held an opponent under 20 points.

Of course, the Giants would have trouble scoring 20 in an intrasquad scrimmage. Rodney Hampton (480 yards, 120 carries) could have a big night against a soft Washington defensive line, although Cross, an important run- blocker, will be missed. In two victories over Washington last season, Giants quarterback Dave Brown (four TDs, six interceptions) had two of the best games of his career.